§ LORD FORBESasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, in view of the delicate situation existing between India and 1202WA Pakistan and the apprehensions of the latter country that arms supplied to India for defence against Chinese Communist aggression may later be diverted to other uses, the Western Powers will consider stepping up military or other aid to Pakistan so as to counterbalance in some way the present aid being given to India.
THE DUKE OF DEVONSHIREA quantity of small arms was supplied to India immediately to meet Chinese attacks and further supplies are now on the way, both from the United Kingdom and from Singapore. Other inquiries about supplies are under urgent consideration. As already announced, the first consignment of arms was supplied as a gift to the Indian Government and we are now examining what further assistance may be necessary to help the Indian authorities in meeting the present emergency. The help we are giving is intended specifically to meet Chinese attacks and, as already announced, the Indian Government have undertaken that arms will be used solely for this purpose. Moreover, we have agreed with the Indian Government arrangements for inspection and control to ensure that they are so used.
In these circumstances the apprehensions which the noble Lord has mentioned though understandable are not justified.
House adjourned at eight o'clock.